Lion Rock Spring Campground

For those of us in Washington who cherish the raw beauty of the outdoors and seek a camping experience that truly connects us with nature, Lion Rock Spring Campground near Cle Elum is a name that often comes up. This isn't your typical developed campground with paved sites and full hookups; instead, it offers a more rugged, authentic wilderness experience within the sprawling Okanogan-Wenatchee National Forest. It's a place where the journey itself is part of the adventure, leading to some of the most spectacular views and tranquil settings our state has to offer.

Lion Rock Spring Campground is renowned among local outdoor enthusiasts for its "Beautiful area" and being "Worth the drive up." This sentiment is echoed in reviews, which frequently praise the stunning vistas and the sense of seclusion it provides. It’s a destination for those who appreciate primitive camping and are prepared for a self-sufficient stay. The allure lies in its untouched natural charm and the opportunities it presents for genuine escape from the everyday hustle.

As one reviewer perfectly described, "Spring time finds the hillsides covered in wildflowers." This highlights the seasonal transformation of the landscape, offering different appeals throughout the year, from vibrant floral displays in spring to rich autumnal colors. The presence of the iconic Lion Rock formation, which resembles a crouching lion, adds a unique geological feature to the already picturesque surroundings, making it a favorite spot for photographers and sightseers alike.

The reviews also provide crucial practical insights for fellow Washingtonians. "Vault toilet near the top/lions rock" confirms basic facilities are available, though campers should manage expectations, as another review noted "no TP." The advice "Camping just about anywhere. Pack it in, Pack it out!" reinforces the dispersed camping nature of the site and the essential Leave No Trace principles that are paramount in preserving such pristine environments. This ethos is deeply ingrained in the local outdoor community, ensuring that these wild places remain beautiful for generations to come.

Furthermore, its inclusion on the Washington Backcountry Discovery Route (WABDR) as a stopover point, as noted by a motorcyclist, speaks to its rugged charm and suitability for those undertaking longer, more adventurous trips. This type of endorsement solidifies its reputation as a reliable and scenic spot for those exploring Washington's vast backcountry by various means. Lion Rock Spring Campground truly embodies the spirit of adventurous, self-reliant camping that many Washington locals hold dear.

Location and Accessibility

Lion Rock Spring Campground is located near Cle Elum, WA 98922, USA, within the expansive Okanogan-Wenatchee National Forest. This places it in the central Cascade Mountains, a region celebrated for its dramatic landscapes, extensive trail systems, and abundant recreational opportunities. The campground’s elevation offers panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and valleys, making the journey to get there as rewarding as the destination itself.

Access to Lion Rock Spring is primarily via forest service roads, which means that while it is accessible, it requires a certain level of preparedness and a suitable vehicle. As one local visitor noted, "Old asphalt road transitions to gravel about a mile from the top if coming from Ellensburg." This detail is crucial for planning, indicating that while a significant portion of the approach might be paved, the final stretch will be on unpaved surfaces. Reviews from those who've made the journey, particularly in vehicles like a Subaru Crosstrek, suggest that "a proper 4x4 with a sports kit, e.g., Jeep Rubicon, 4Runner TRD, or an ORV, it's not pleasant" and that a "low clearance car could make it via FS-35 and it was unenjoyable in a CrossTrek. It felt more like a proper unmaintained 4x4 road." This emphasizes the need for a high-clearance vehicle, and potentially 4x4, to comfortably and safely navigate the rougher sections of the road.

The campground operates seasonally, typically from mid-May to mid-September, coinciding with when the higher elevation forest roads are clear of snow and safely passable. During the spring, particularly when wildflowers are in bloom, the roads can be muddy or have lingering snow patches, even necessitating a 4x4 for the last few miles, as experienced by some visitors attempting early-season trips. It's always advisable for locals to check current road conditions with the Cle Elum Ranger District or the Okanogan-Wenatchee National Forest website before embarking on their trip, especially early or late in the season.

Despite the rustic nature of the access roads, the journey to Lion Rock Spring is part of its charm for many Washington adventurers. It promises a true escape into the backcountry, far from paved highways and urban noise, ensuring that those who make the drive are rewarded with a pristine and uncrowded natural setting.

Services Offered

• Vault Toilets: Lion Rock Spring Campground provides vault toilets, offering a basic but essential amenity for campers. Visitors should be aware, as noted in reviews, that toilet paper might not always be supplied, so bringing your own is advisable.
• No Potable Water: There is no piped or potable water available at the campground. Campers must bring all their own drinking water. While a spring is present, as mentioned in the name, reviews indicate it may not flow sufficiently for drinking water, especially in mid-August. It may be suitable for rinsing dishes.
• Primitive/Dispersed Camping: The area allows for camping "just about anywhere" within designated boundaries, offering a more dispersed and less structured camping experience compared to traditional campgrounds with marked sites.
• No Hookups: As a primitive campground, there are no electrical, water, or sewer hookups available for RVs or trailers. This means campers must be fully self-sufficient.
• No Reservations: Campsites are generally on a first-come, first-served basis, providing flexibility for spontaneous trips but also suggesting early arrival during peak seasons.
• Pack It In, Pack It Out Policy: Visitors are expected to adhere strictly to Leave No Trace principles, meaning all trash and waste must be packed out from the campground.
• No Picnic Tables or Fire Rings (at all sites): While some reviews might mention picnic tables, the more primitive nature of "camping just about anywhere" suggests that individual sites may not have dedicated picnic tables or established fire rings. Campers should be prepared to bring their own cooking equipment and check for fire restrictions before considering a campfire.
• Seasonal Access: The site is only accessible during the non-snowy months, typically from mid-May to mid-September, when the forest roads are open.

Features / Highlights

• Stunning Panoramic Views: Lion Rock Spring is highly praised for its "Beautiful area" and "views views and more views." The elevation offers breathtaking vistas of the surrounding mountain ranges and the Kittitas Valley, making it a prime spot for photography and scenic enjoyment.
• Wildflower Displays: In the spring, the hillsides around Lion Rock Spring become a vibrant tapestry of wildflowers, creating a spectacular natural display that draws visitors.
• Iconic Lion Rock Formation: The distinctive Lion Rock formation itself is a unique geological highlight, providing a recognizable landmark and a focal point for the area.
• Access to Backcountry Trails: The campground serves as a gateway to various trails, including those that are part of or connect to the Washington Backcountry Discovery Route (WABDR), appealing to hikers, motorcyclists, and off-road vehicle enthusiasts.
• Secluded and Primitive Camping: For those who prefer a less crowded and more authentic wilderness experience, the dispersed camping options allow for a greater sense of solitude and connection with nature.
• Off-Roading Opportunities: The access roads leading to the campground, and surrounding trails, offer challenging and rewarding experiences for those with high-clearance or 4x4 vehicles, including Jeeps and ATVs.
• Dark Skies for Stargazing: Being in a remote, high-elevation area away from light pollution, Lion Rock Spring offers excellent opportunities for stargazing on clear nights.

Contact Information

Address: Cle Elum, WA 98922, USA

Phone: For information regarding Lion Rock Spring Campground and the surrounding Okanogan-Wenatchee National Forest, it is best to contact the Cle Elum Ranger District.

Cle Elum Ranger District Phone: (509) 852-1100

It is always recommended to call ahead or check the official Okanogan-Wenatchee National Forest website for the most current information regarding road conditions, seasonal closures, fire restrictions, and any alerts before planning your trip to Lion Rock Spring Campground.

Conclusion: Why this place is suitable for locals

For Washington locals seeking an authentic and immersive outdoor experience, Lion Rock Spring Campground stands out as an exceptionally suitable destination. It embodies the rugged beauty and adventurous spirit that define our state's wilderness areas, offering a true escape from the everyday.

One of its key appeals for Washingtonians is its primitive nature. In a state with many developed campgrounds, Lion Rock Spring provides the rare opportunity for dispersed camping, allowing visitors to find their own secluded spot amidst the trees and hills. This "camping just about anywhere" freedom is highly valued by those who prefer to be truly embedded in nature, away from the structured layouts and potential crowds of more conventional sites. It’s a chance to truly unplug and embrace self-reliance, a skill many Washington outdoor enthusiasts cultivate.

The journey to Lion Rock Spring itself is part of the allure for many locals. The transition from paved roads to gravel, and potentially rougher terrain, is a familiar aspect of accessing our state's more remote treasures. It often requires a high-clearance or 4x4 vehicle, which is a common possession among Washington residents who embrace outdoor adventure. This accessibility challenge, far from being a deterrent, often attracts those who appreciate a destination that rewards a bit of effort with unparalleled natural beauty. The spectacular panoramic views from Lion Rock, especially with hillsides covered in wildflowers in spring, are a testament to this reward.

Furthermore, its location within the Okanogan-Wenatchee National Forest and its connection to the Washington Backcountry Discovery Route highlight its significance within the broader network of Washington's outdoor recreation. This makes it an ideal basecamp for extended explorations, whether hiking, off-roading, or simply soaking in the serene environment. The knowledge that basic amenities like vault toilets are available, even without potable water, aligns with the expectations of many seasoned Washington campers who are accustomed to being self-sufficient in the backcountry and adhering to "Pack it in, Pack it out" principles.

Ultimately, Lion Rock Spring Campground offers a genuine taste of Washington's wild heart. It’s a place for those who seek solitude, breathtaking scenery, and the satisfaction of a truly authentic camping adventure. For locals, it represents a readily accessible opportunity to disconnect, explore, and rejuvenate amidst the stunning landscapes that make our state a paradise for outdoor lovers.

Lion Rock Spring Campground

Cle Elum, WA 98922, USA